If you’ve visited our destination before, you probably have a list of your top attractions, restaurants, and activities that are always on your itinerary. While we know breaking away from our tried-and-true favorite spots can be challenging, why not experience something new on your next trip? We’ve put together a list of hidden gems on Alabama’s Beaches.
What Makes These Hidden Gems Truly Special
Experience a few of Alabama’s Beaches' best-kept secrets and discover new spots during your next trip to our shores. From local bars and eateries to historic landmarks and one-of-a-kind attractions, visiting these spots promises a more unique experience than your typical beach vacation and will give you a whole new perspective of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.
1. The Sloop
Hidden under the Hwy. 59 overpass in Gulf Shores sits The Sloop. This eclectic eatery is a favorite among locals and specializes in Philly cheesesteaks. The restaurant's walls are adorned with sports memorabilia and lots of TVs, so you won’t miss a game while dining here. While everything on the menu is fantastic, the party fries and cheesecake egg rolls are must-haves.
2. Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge
Nature lovers must venture to Fort Morgan to explore the trails of Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge. French for “safe harbor,” the 7,000-acre refuge is home to native flora, fauna, and 370 migratory birds. Inside, you’ll find four hiking trails that allow you to immerse yourself in the beautiful coastal barrier habitats throughout the site. If you want to hit the water, bring your kayak or paddleboard and set out into Little Lagoon from the convenient launch point located next to the Jeff Friend Trail.
3. Pier House
Bring your appetite to Pier House in Orange Beach and be prepared to leave with a satisfied stomach and soul. This beautiful restaurant is located just across the beach and serves all the seafood you can imagine. Pier House is a great option for those with food allergies, as everything on the menu is marked accordingly. Start your order with a dozen oysters or a cup of gumbo, then indulge in a delicious fresh-from-the-Gulf meal.
4. Magni Gyroflight
If you never witnessed the beach from above, we’ve got the perfect experience for you. Discover the excitement of flying over the turquoise waters of the Gulf in a gyroplane with Magni Gyroflight. This stable aircraft offers a smooth ride, and you’ll even get the opportunity to fly it yourself with the help of your instructor. From the air, you’ll be able to get an aerial view of Gulf State Park, the Gulf of Mexico, and notable landmarks in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.
5. Daisy’s Donuts
Those with a sweet tooth will need to pay a visit to Daisy’s Donuts in Orange Beach. This sugary spot offers fresh donuts made daily with real fruit. However, these aren’t your typical donuts. Daisy’s offers unique weekly flavors like key lime pie, white chocolate raspberry, cookie dough stuffed with filling and topped with even more goodness. Not only do these delicious donuts taste good, but they look incredible, too! Patrons can also grab traditional donuts, iced coffee, and boba teas here.
6. Sea View Kayak Tours
Who says the fun has to end once the sun goes down? On Alabama’s Beaches, you can continue exploring our waterways after dark with Sea View Tours. During your excursion, you’ll hop in a clear, lighted kayak and paddle to Bird Island. Once there, you’ll grab your turtle-friendly flashlights and search the sand for ghost crabs. Sea View also offers sunset tours, where you can watch the sun melt into the Gulf as you float across our serene waterways.
7. The Beli
A picnic on the beach calls for a savory sandwich, and The Beli is your one-stop shop for a quick and yummy meal. Situated just across from West Gulf Place, this quaint restaurant serves incredible specialty and breakfast sandwiches. The building may be small, but the menu items are anything but and pack a bold flavor. Dine in or grab a few sammies, bags of chips, and drinks to go and enjoy a relaxing meal on the beach.
8. Little Lagoon Pass Park
Little Lagoon Pass Park offers something for everyone. An excellent spot for fishing, picnicking, and birding, this park offers access to both Little Lagoon and the Gulf. Bring your reels and nets and cast off from the shore or wade into the water. Beachgoers will enjoy the quietness and convenience of this spot. The lagoon itself is an excellent place for the little ones to play in, as the water is typically shallow and calm. Parking, restrooms, and showers are all available.
9. Wisdom Harbour Studios & General Store
If you haven’t heard the name “Andy Andrews,” you do now! This New York Times Best Selling Author has a store and free museum located right here on Alabama’s Beaches at The Wharf. Inside, you’ll find unique gifts, his award-winning books, and a collection of memorabilia and artifacts ranging from the Andy Griffith Show and I Love Lucy to sports and WW11. You can even watch him as he records his live podcast in the studio every Tuesday and Thursday at 12:15 pm.
10. 8 Reale
It doesn’t get more “hidden gem” than a speakeasy. Located at The Wharf and accessed through a vault in a jewelry store, 8 Reale invites you inside for libations in a sophisticated atmosphere reminiscent of prohibition days. Whether you like old fashions, mules, or martinis, you’ll love sipping on the handcrafted cocktails made with fresh, local ingredients. To enter 8 Reale, you’ll need the daily secret code, which you can find on their social channels.
11. Hidden Lake
As its name suggests, this lake is tucked away and hidden within Gulf State Park. This gorgeous lake provides visitors with a totally serene atmosphere surrounded by towering longleaf pines. Take a seat on one of the benches or swings surrounding the lake and take in the scenery, or watch for native wildlife. The area can be accessed by the Hidden Lake Trail, which sits just off the Twin Bridges Trail in Orange Beach. The quickest way to get there is from the Orange Beach Sportsplex Trailhead. Keep in mind that this trail is not paved.
12. SanRoc Cay
Home to restaurants, local stores, spas, and a marina, SanRoc Cay is a fantastic spot to spend a day. Shop ‘til you drop at the boutiques and gift shops, and then relax with a calming massage or facial. If you’re searching for excitement, venture out onto the water on one of the many charter boats that dock at the marina or fly over the waves with a Jet Skii rental. End your day with a delectable dinner at one of the four restaurants and catch the sunset from the courtyard.
